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===Language ===
Despite Portuguese being the official language, Spanish is widely understood. However, using a few Portuguese key words goes a long way, as generally people give some value to that. You will find that many Portuguese speak English or French as a second language. According to the International English Proficiency Index [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EF_English_Proficiency_Index], Portugal has a high proficiency level in English, proficiency higher than in countries like Italy, France or Greece.
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Another important issue is the way you address the drivers (since speaking directly with them gives better result than standing on the exit of the highway, if you´re hitchhiking on one. The Portuguese, even if not very familiar with the idea of hitchhiking, turn out to be very friendly people if approached in the right way. Say hello, excuse for disturbing, explain where you´re going to and ask if by any chance they´re going the same way. Seems like very basic advice but in Portugal it matters more than in central Europe ;)
===Language ===
Despite Portuguese being the official language, Spanish is widely understood. However, using a few Portuguese key words goes a long way, as generally people give some value to that. You will find that many Portuguese speak English or French as a second language. According to the International English Proficiency Index [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EF_English_Proficiency_Index], Portugal has a high proficiency level in English, proficiency higher than in countries like Italy, France or Greece.
=== Legal stuff ===
If your ride is only taking you to somewhere near Vilar Formoso border and you want to go further in Portugal, stay at the last Cepsa gas station on the right side of the road, 5kms before the border. Gas is cheaper in Spain, and many cars fill up their tanks in there before entering Portugal.
==== Truck Routes ====
